AZ Big 100: 50 commercial real estate leaders to watch in 2026

Spotlighting the AZ Big 100 for 2026 shines a light on the 50 individuals and 50 companies shaping Arizona’s economic future. Selected by the AZRE magazine editorial board in consultation with industry experts, this list of the 50 commercial real estate leaders to watch in 2026 recognizes the visionaries, innovators and market-makers driving growth, investment and opportunity across the state. The AZ Big 100 captures who matters now—and who will define Arizona’s economy in the years ahead.

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MONDAY: AZ Big 100: 50 Arizona companies to watch in 2026

TUESDAY: AZ Big 100: 50 Arizona business leaders to watch in 2026

WEDNESDAY: AZ Big 100: 50 Arizona commercial real estate companies to watch in 2026

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Ryan Abbott, president, Clayco

Background: As president, Abbott is responsible to accelerate the growth and performance of all the Clayco business units in the Southwest. He is a modern construction leader, national lecturer, and educator on integrated project delivery methods, and has had his work published both locally and nationally in many industry-leading periodicals. Abbott’s talent for understanding complex, highly technical, large-scale projects is demonstrated on jobs which have collectively netted over 61 awards for design and construction excellence. He’s a believer in the American Dream ethos of upward social mobility through hard work, education, and critical thinking.

Acts of innovation: Abbott’s most innovative and astute business decisions drive the evolutionary advancement of closing the chasm between design and build. Collaborating with a dedicated team, Abbott has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of traditional design-build practices to create infrastructure that is harder working, longer lasting and more technologically advanced and sustainable. Under Abbott’s leadership, projects have embraced cutting-edge design and construction methodologies, leveraged the latest technologies to enhance efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability. By integrating innovative solutions into every phase of the construction process, Abbott and his team have set new standards for excellence in the industry.

Secret sauce: “Understanding how to leverage teams to successful outcomes. Having had the opportunity to contribute to laboratories that do world-renowned biomedical research; hospitals dedicated to healing; incredible facilities that educate and inspire; campuses that keep people safe and secure; design-build factories that create; microelectronics that allow us to carry globally connected supercomputers in our pockets; innovations harnessing solar energy; stadiums for competition and play; airports for exploration; resorts for rejuvenation; institutions that support governance; data centers that form the computational capacity for a future to solve even greater societal challenges – it all comes down to people and teamwork.”

Learn more: claycorp.com

Dala Al-Fuwaires

House of Form: Known for projects like Cala and Harumi Sushi & Bar, Al-Fuwaires is a visionary hospitality designer and philanthropic leader whose firm, House of Form, transforms Arizona’s restaurant and hospitality landscape through storytelling and equity-driven design. 

Annette Anderson, Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation

Background:  Anderson has built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades. She joined AEF in 1992 as a receptionist and eventually became president in 2023. Anderson is also a successful entrepreneur and co-owner of a popular breakfast/lunch restaurant in Gilbert.

Innovation: “My most innovative decision in business was adopting a truly people-focused strategy, shifting the mindset from profit-driven to purpose-driven. I realized that empowering individuals, listening to their ideas, and investing in their growth creates a powerful ripple effect throughout the organization. When people feel valued, innovation naturally follows. This approach not only improved collaboration and creativity but also strengthened our culture and customer relationships. By focusing on people first, we built a foundation for sustainable success. It proved that the most inventive business strategy isn’t built on technology or tactics — it’s built on trust, empathy and the power of human potential.”

Secret sauce: “The secret sauce of success isn’t luck or timing — it’s built on honesty, integrity, and the discipline to live by those values every day. Reputations are the hardest things to build and the easiest to lose, which is why staying true to one’s word and principles matters more than any short-term gain.”

Learn more: arizonaescrow.com

Chase Anderson, A.T. Meridian

Anderson, CEO of A.T. Meridian Construction, is a third‑generation builder with deep roots in Arizona. Since becoming CEO in 2019, he’s driven double‑digit growth, prioritizing quality craftsmanship, efficiency and customer satisfaction across a broad range of commercial projects.

Todd Baum, Sun Valley Masonry

Baum, now president of Sun Valley Masonry, grew up in the family business, working summers as a laborer before becoming an apprentice bricklayer under some of Arizona’s top craftsmen. 

Brandon Boett, Slabhaus

From the REMI hotel to the Bond multipurpose office/restaurant space to beautiful Scottsdale and Paradise Valley residences, Boetto, owner of Slabhaus, has led a multitude of custom projects that deliver hand-crafted concrete design that elevate spaces

Duerk Brewer, Matthews Real Estate Investment Services

Brewer is currently the chief operating officer at Matthews Real Estate Investment Services. His core competencies include leadership, operations management and team development, with a mission to foster growth and innovation within the organization. 

Walt Brown, Diversified Partners

Brown is a principal at Diversified Partners, where he leads investment strategy and growth initiatives across industrial and commercial real estate markets. With deep sector expertise and strategic vision, he drives new partnerships and oversees asset performance to maximize long‑term value.

Lucas Bruxvoort, Industrial Power Solutions

Bruxvoort is a key leader at Industrial Power Solutions, overseeing critical infrastructure projects and delivering dependable energy solutions. With strong expertise in electrical systems, he ensures safety, reliability, and efficiency — helping clients power their operations confidently.

Dan Bueschel, Modigent

Bueschel is CEO of Modigent, bringing 35 years of executive leadership in infrastructure, HVAC and energy services. He champions innovation, workforce development, and sustainable growth, directing Modigent’s national expansion while upholding a people‑first, values-driven culture.

David Campbell, district manager, PCL Construction

Background: Campbell joined PCL in 2005 and built a career shaped by collaboration, growth and strong client relationships. As district manager for PCL’s Arizona Buildings, he leads regional operations with a focus on partnership and community impact. He previously served as manager of Strategic Expansion at PCL’s U.S. Headquarters in Denver, advancing national market development and long-term growth. He also led PCL’s Special Projects department, delivering complex work across entertainment, commercial, residential, retail, sports and transportation market sectors.

Acts of innovation: Campbell’s most innovative action came when he managed PCL’s expansion initiative that identified Arizona as a key market for PCL’s long-term, sustainable growth. Working with company leaders, he evaluated emerging markets and analyzed key benchmarks, including population growth, GDP strength, construction labor force and many others, which consistently place the state at the top. This insight drove the launch of a new buildings presence, where Campbell is focused on creating partnerships, building trust and shaping operations to strengthen PCL’s role in shaping communities and delivering impact. The experience reinforced his belief that true innovation arises from collaboration, clear vision and investing in people to strengthen both the business and those it serves.

Learn more: pcl.com

Sean Cooney and Mike Koch, Suncrest Real Estate Development

Suncrest is a forward-thinking firm focused on high-growth opportunities in residential and mixed-use projects. Known for strategic site selection and community-driven design, Suncrest emphasizes sustainability, innovation and long-term value in Arizona’s evolving real estate landscape.

Kimberly Davids, Arizona Builders Alliance

Background: With more than 20 years in commercial construction, Davids’ career has been driven by a passion for continuous growth. Armed with a civil engineering degree from the University of Illinois, she worked her way up from project engineer, superintendent, project manager and executive to vice president, building for some of the country’s largest general contractors. As president of the ABA, Davids leads the top trade association for contractors in Arizona, representing more than 350 member companies, the AGC and the ABC through business development, education and advocacy at state and federal levels.

Innovative actions: “Since joining the ABA in 2023, I’ve been working to transform Arizona’s education landscape by developing comprehensive workforce training that helps members grow their field and leadership teams to meet ever changing industry demands. I immediately launched initiatives to modernize our training programs and expand accessibility for members across the Valley. Our strategic relocation to SkySong in early 2026 establishes a premier industry hub that unites our educational programs and apprenticeship training under one roof and enables advanced hands-on training, technology integration and powerful collaboration opportunities.”

Secret sauce: “My success stems from prioritizing people and authentic connections, because no matter where you go or what you do, relationships matter.”

Learn more: azbuilders.org

Courtney Dunlap, Benson Construction

“Joining Benson Construction allows me to lead a company in its early stages of growth,” Dunlap says. “My vision is to scale the business to $100 million in annual billings by driving efficiencies, developing strong managers and creating an environment where employees feel supported and valued.” 

Cooper Fratt, CBRE

Fratt is a commercial real estate specialist with CBRE, focusing on market analysis and investment strategy across Arizona. He brings data‑driven insights and deep regional knowledge to clients seeking retail, office and industrial real estate opportunities in fast‑growing markets.

Charlie Freericks, Howard Hughes

Freericks leads development efforts at Howard Hughes in Arizona, overseeing large-scale mixed‑use and master‑planned communities. He blends long‑term vision with practical execution, driving growth while maintaining a commitment to quality design, community engagement and sustainable development.

Andrew Geier, Layton Construction

Geier is an executive vice president at Layton Construction, a position he was promoted to at the age of 29. Under Geier’s leadership, Layton has earned numerous project-based awards, experienced record-breaking growth and significantly broadened its diverse resume of projects. 

Jenna Ghisolfo, Housing Consultants of America

Background: Ghisolfo is a national speaker, housing consultant and trainer whose mission is rooted in survival and advocacy. After escaping an abusive relationship and rebuilding her life through Section 8 housing, Ghisolfo dedicated her career to ending homelessness and domestic violence. Today, as the founder and president of Housing Consultants of America, she leads a national team helping individuals secure stable, safe housing. With 19 years of industry expertise, Ghisolfo partners with nonprofits and housing providers to create pathways to security, dignity and hope — using her lived experience to transform communities and empower others to rise.

Innovation: “My most innovative decision was transforming my personal experience with domestic violence and Section 8 housing into a national consulting model that bridges compliance, homelessness prevention and survivor advocacy. I built Housing Consultants of America to not only support affordable housing operations, but to humanize them — creating systems where residents aren’t just files, but people rebuilding their lives. I developed scalable processes, nationwide consultant teams and partnerships with nonprofits to fill vacancies with those most in need. This approach revolutionized how owners, agencies and service providers collaborate, proving that compliance and compassion can — and must — work together.”

Learn more: housingconsultantsofamerica.com

Gonzo Gonzalez, regional director, Keeley Construction

Background: Gonzalez is the regional director for Keeley Construction in Arizona, bringing 23 years of experience in commercial real estate and construction. He leads the strategic growth of Keeley’s Building and Industrial divisions, overseeing operations, client relationships, and market development across the region. Known for his collaborative approach and industry expertise, Gonzalez is dedicated to delivering exceptional project outcomes and strengthening long-term partnerships throughout Arizona.

Act of innovation: “My most innovative act was shifting our business approach from traditional, transactional development to a truly partnership-driven model. By prioritizing long-term relationships, transparency, and early collaboration with clients and design partners, we’ve created a more predictable, efficient and value-focused project experience that consistently leads to better outcomes for the entire team.”

Secret sauce: “My secret sauce is staying calm and strategic while deeply invested in the people and the outcomes. I genuinely care, and that level of commitment and consistency sets the tone and fuels our success.” 

Learn more: keeleyconstruction.com

Andrew Goodwin, Professional Piping Systems

Goodwin heads operations at Professional Piping Systems, ensuring efficient execution of complex industrial and infrastructure projects. With strong leadership and technical expertise, he manages project delivery, quality control and workforce safety across a broad portfolio of mechanical contracting work.

Carlos Hernandez, Keepers Commercial Cleaning

Hernandez is the founder of Keepers Commercial Cleaning, leading the company’s expansion across commercial and industrial facilities. Known for operational excellence and customer service, he ensures high standards of cleanliness and reliability, building a reputation for professionalism and trust in facility maintenance.

Stephanie Hughes, Canyon State Electric

Hughes leads business development and client relations at Canyon State Electric, coordinating electrical contracting services for major commercial and industrial builds. She combines technical knowledge with strategic planning to deliver reliable, compliant electrical infrastructure on challenging schedules.

Bill Jabjiniak, EdgeCore Digital Infrastructure

Background: Jabjiniak leads community and government relations programs nationwide for both existing and prospective EdgeCore data center markets with the goal of collaboratively supporting the key issues held by various communities and local governments in which EdgeCore does business. The 30 years of results-driven vision and leadership in economic development, revitalization and public-private partnership that Jabjiniak brings to EdgeCore comes from his time spent working for municipalities in Arizona, Virginia and New Hampshire. In his most recent role as director of economic development for the City of Mesa, Jabjiniak focused on business attraction, retention and expansion, entrepreneurship, redevelopment and revitalization programs with the mission of growing the local economy.

Act of innovation: “In my current role, I introduced a model where data center development is deeply tied to community well-being. Instead of treating data centers as isolated industrial projects, a developer must build collaborative, trust-based relationships with local governments and organizations; be a good listener and provide honest, straightforward responses; create community programs that address local priorities; and position data centers as economic engines and good neighbors, not just technical facilities. This approach is innovative because it reframes the digital infrastructure industry as a community partner, which is uncommon in a sector often criticized for being opaque and resource intensive.”

Learn more: edgecore.com

Jared Kredit, K2 Electric

Kredit serves as a principal at K2 Electric, directing electrical project execution for diversified commercial developments. With a hands‑on approach and deep technical expertise, he ensures safety, efficiency and timely project completion — earning trust from clients and contractors alike.

Jimmy Lindblom, Willmeng Construction

Lindblom is a project executive at Willmeng Construction, managing complex developments spanning commercial, industrial and mixed‑use projects. He’s known for strong leadership, budget discipline and delivering quality results under tight deadlines, earning him a reputation for reliability and excellence.

Cheryl Lombard, NAIOP Arizona

Lombard is the new leader at NAIOP Arizona, advancing commercial real estate advocacy and industry collaboration statewide. She fosters engagement among developers, policymakers and firms — championing growth-friendly policy and supporting sustainable development of office, industrial and mixed-use real estate.

Nate Lowrie, owner and CEO, Bjerk Builders

Background: Lowrie is a fourth-generation Arizonan who grew up with the hard-working people of his father’s commercial construction sites. The 48-year-old business leader is an entrepreneur with 25 years of experience in originating and growing businesses. He served for eight years as a board member, then seven years as CEO of Valleywise Health Foundation. He was also president of L&N Investment Company, the holding company for Zoe’s Kitchen Southwest, and a part owner of Bicycle Haus. Lowrie graduated magna cum laude from Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business with a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurial and small business operations.

Acts of innovation: “The most innovative decision was to accept an invitation from Board Chair Kevin Neal of Gallagher & Kennedy to take eight burn survivors to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Not only did this turn into a documentary and fuel a record-breaking fundraising effort to build the new Halle Arizona Burn Center, but it also showed many what we can do to rebuild lives and build hope for future survivors. I often say we don’t just build buildings, we build trust. It is amazing the trust that was built on that epic adventure.”

Secret sauce: “For me, it all comes down to faith and people. I believe we’re all given gifts from God, and it’s up to us to pour those into our lives, our families and our businesses. I’m pretty relentless when it comes to seeing just how much of that potential I can fulfill. One resource I rely on heavily is learning — books and podcasts are game-changers. Charlie Munger said it best: ‘There are ideas worth billions in a $30 history book.’ And honestly, no wisdom has shaped me more than what’s found in the Bible — it’s timeless.”

Learn more: bjerkbuilders.com

Joe Malone, Haydon

Malone is a senior executive at Haydon Construction, overseeing large-scale commercial and institutional building projects. With decades of experience, he prioritizes craftsmanship, client satisfaction and innovative construction techniques — consistently delivering high-quality structures on schedule and within budget.

Tony Mangat, founder, The Mangat Group

Background: Mangat is the founder of The Mangat Group, a parent company spanning real estate, logistics, construction, retail, hospitality and franchising. After arriving in the U.S. with just $20, he built a $50 million enterprise with roughly $200 million in land assets. The Mangat Group includes MG Truck Driving School, MG Construction (the developer of the upcoming MG Business Park) and MG Fresh (franchisors of Moe’s Southwest Grill and Cinnabon Swirl). Mangat is also a key investor in Liberty Petroleum’s major Australian exploration initiative.

Act of innovation: “My most innovative decision was choosing to build my businesses so they support each other. Instead of relying on outside partners, I brought key parts of the work in-house, from land development and construction to trucking, training and retail operations. This allows us to control quality, move faster and create more value on every project. It also creates long-term jobs and keeps opportunities within our community. By building companies that work together, I’ve been able to grow in a smarter, more sustainable way while staying true to my values.”

Secret sauce: “I believe business is built on trust, so I make sure to treat my employees like family, because their success is the foundation of mine.”

Learn more: mangat.com

Rodney Martin, Russell Sigler

Martin serves on the board of Russell Sigler, Inc., a long‑established HVAC distribution company in Arizona. He brings industry experience and governance oversight to steer company strategy and support its regional distribution operations. 

Peggy Maxwell, Kidder Mathews

Maxwell is a commercial real estate professional at Kidder Mathews, specializing in Arizona property markets. She advises clients on asset acquisition, leasing and market positioning — leveraging local market intelligence to deliver tailored real estate solutions for investors and tenants.

Keith Mishkin, Cambridge Properties

Mishkin leads efforts at Cambridge Companies, guiding design‑build and development of waste‑management, recycling and industrial service facilities. His expertise ensures clients receive turnkey project delivery focused on functional design, regulatory compliance and cost‑effective performance. 

Todd Ostransky, IndiCap

Ostransky is a principal at IndiCap, driving infrastructure investment and development strategies. With a focus on growth markets, he leverages industry insight and strategic capital planning to support commercial real estate and industrial facility expansion across the region.

Crystal Pierce, FFKR Architects

Pierce serves as business development director at FFKR Architects, where she coordinates client relationships and project planning across commercial, hospitality and civic sectors. She helps translate architectural vision into actionable development, advancing design excellence across Arizona’s built environment.

Rob Rarrick, HACI Mechanical Contractors

Rarrick is a senior executive at HACI Mechanical Contractors, leading mechanical contracting, HVAC, plumbing and infrastructure projects across commercial, healthcare and institutional markets. Known for quality installation, green‑construction standards and seamless project delivery.

Jennifer Reynolds, Ideation Design Group

Reynolds is a design‑industry leader at Ideation Design Group, overseeing creative strategy and client engagement. She blends design thinking with market insight to deliver functional, aesthetic interior environments — driving innovation in workspaces, hospitality and mixed‑use projects.

Thomas W. Roberts, WREN Capital

Roberts is a principal at WREN Capital and TWR Real Estate Partners, also affiliated with Integral Partners. He spearheads strategic investments and real estate development across industrial, commercial and mixed‑use sectors — driving growth through disciplined asset acquisition, redevelopment and operational excellence.

Angie Schmidt, SDB Contracting

Schmidt heads executive leadership at SDB Contracting Services, managing large‑scale commercial and institutional build‑outs across Arizona. Under her leadership, SDB delivers advanced‑technology, healthcare, aviation and municipal projects — backed by diverse in‑house capabilities, a union workforce, and robust project planning. 

Jaki Scott, Kraus‑Anderson Construction

Scott is a senior leader at Kraus-Anderson Construction’s Phoenix office, overseeing construction management and real estate development across commercial, healthcare, educational and mixed‑use sectors. With a focus on integrated delivery and long-term relationships, she drives project execution from preconstruction through completion. 

Jeremy Stanek, Clune Construction

Stanek serves as executive vice president at Clune Construction’s Phoenix office, overseeing ground-up industrial, data center, medical, retail and tenant‑improvement projects. He leads project delivery, client partnerships and quality standards, contributing to Clune’s rapid growth and strong reputation in Arizona contracting. 

Demetrios Stavrianos, Ware Malcomb

Stavrianos leads architectural direction at Ware Malcomb, bringing creative vision and technical expertise to commercial, retail and corporate design across Arizona. He guides project teams from concept through execution, ensuring functional beauty and long-term value for clients and communities.

Justin Steltenpohl, P.B. Bell

Steltenpohl is a senior leader at P.B. Bell, driving construction and development efforts across industrial and commercial sectors in Arizona. He manages project scopes, timelines and budgets — ensuring quality, compliance and client satisfaction on complex builds.

Ankur Talwar, district manager, West Region, PCL Construction

Background: Talwar is a licensed professional engineer with 30 years’ experience in civil infrastructure, successfully partnering with clients to deliver large and complex collaborative delivery projects.Talwar brings over three decades of experience across North America to the forefront of complex water infrastructure development. He oversees more than $4 billion in civil construction projects spanning from the West Coast to West Texas, including offices in California, Arizona and Denver. Under his leadership, PCL is delivering some of the Western U.S.’s most ambitious and technically demanding water infrastructure projects.

Acts of innovation: “Historically in construction, it’s common for each side to stick to their own corner, but I’ve discovered that rarely leads to great outcomes. I’ve worked hard to change that by pushing for a more collaborative and transparent approach during preconstruction and construction between PCL and our clients. When you have that, trust grows, and we start acting as true partners rather than separate teams. That openness has helped us build stronger relationships, align our interests and ultimately deliver better results for our clients.”

Learn more: pcl.com

Mike Tarver, MT Builders

Tarver leads MT Builders in Arizona, steering construction execution and operations for commercial and industrial developments. Known for strong project management and team leadership, he ensures timely delivery and high‑quality workmanship across a diverse project portfolio.

Bryce Terveen, managing director, Colliers

Background: As executive managing director and brokerage market leader for Colliers in Arizona, Terveen leads all brokerage operations across the firm’s Phoenix and Scottsdale offices. In this role, he is responsible for guiding the region’s strategic growth, overseeing business development, and cultivating a high-performance culture among professionals and staff. With a wealth of experience developing and leading portfolio strategies for Fortune 500 companies and delivering results in lease restructuring, financial consulting and facility optimization, Terveen works closely with teams across service lines to ensure alignment with client priorities, operational goals, and Colliers’ broader vision in the West Region.

Act of innovation: “Since taking the role as managing director at Colliers, I have challenged our professionals to take a fresh look at how we operate our business. Whether strategizing our brokerage business plans, executing outcomes for clients or increasing collaboration amongst our business lines, my approach has always been centered around getting better. Providing a fresh perspective helps our professionals to refresh their client centric focus. New ideas could result in everything from creative marketing approaches to revisiting basic processes to enhance productivity. If I can create value and solve problems for our teams, Colliers clients gain better service and outcomes.”

Secret sauce: “My secret sauce is deeply rooted in the work ethic and processes I have followed since playing professional baseball. Having a defined goal and a methodical process has allowed me to maintain success over a long period. The brokerage business runs parallel to the pursuit of excellence in sports. If you show up and consistently execute the methodical steps, long-term success usually follows. Additionally, I have a unique perspective of recently transitioning from producer to manager. I can relate to agents’ challenges and offer strategic advice, having faced many of those challenges myself.”

Learn more: colliers.com

Norty Turner, Sunstate Equipment

Turner oversees operations at Sunstate Equipment, a leading national rental company providing construction and industrial equipment. He ensures efficient equipment delivery, safety standards and customer service, supporting contractors statewide with reliable tools and equipment solutions. 

Daniel Van Denburgh, American Fence Company

Van Denburgh leads operations at American Fence Company’s Arizona division, managing installation and maintenance of fencing and perimeter security solutions across commercial, industrial and residential properties — prioritizing safety, compliance and customer satisfaction.